#100: Virginia Just Banned Non-Competes: What Franchisors Need to Know

#100: Virginia Just Banned Non-Competes: What Franchisors Need to Know

May 11, 2026 · 12 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the implications of Virginia's ban on non-compete clauses for franchisors and franchisees.

Virginia has fundamentally changed franchising. Under the amended Virginia Retail Franchising Act, post-termination and post-expiration non-compete provisions in franchise agreements are now prohibited for Virginia franchisees. But the impact goes beyond non-competes. In this episode, we discuss:• How the new law affects franchise systems• Why settlement agreements are now impacted• The nullification of certain choice-of-law provisions• Risks to existing franchisees and system stability• How franchisors should rethink franchise agreements moving forward We also break down practical strategies franchisors should consider, including:• Strengthening confidentiality protections• Reinforcing operations manuals and system standards• Reevaluating liquidated damages provisions• Restructuring franchise relationships in light of the law If you franchise in Virginia, or operate nationally, this is a legal development you need to understand. #franchising #franchiselaw #virginialaw #noncompete #franchisegrowth

People in this episode

Host: Charles Internicola

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Virginia Retail Franchising Act

Places: Virginia

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